Wiegman hails England´s ´solid´ defence against USA

Sarina Wiegman praised England’s defensive work in an “intense” game against the United States after they played out a 0-0 draw at Wembley.

The Lionesses struggled to find their rhythm in attack, managing just four shots throughout the game, with only one of those on target – a Leah Williamson header in the 55th minute.

However, they also limited the USA to just three shots on target, with Mary Earps the standout performer as she helped to keep the Olympic champions at bay.

After losing their last friendly at Wembley 4-3 to Germany, Wiegman was pleased to see a marked improvement as England step up their preparation for Euro 2025.

“This shows where we are at, and we need to keep improving,” Wiegman told ITV. “It is November now. This is good, but we want to be better again. We have to be better again.

“I thought it was a very intense game. Of course, we know the USWNT is very dynamic [and] explosive in going forward.

“Our defence was solid, we were defending as a team, very strong. They challenged us on the wings; I think we solved that well, and in the box, we defended that pretty good. I’m happy with the team performance.”

A battle of two of the best ends in a draw at @wembleystadium. pic.twitter.com/ybrlPMZjQe

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) November 30, 2024

The visitors thought they had scored a winner at the start of the second half, only for Lindsey Horan’s finish to be ruled out for offside.

They were also awarded a penalty in the 65th minute for an Alex Greenwood handball, though VAR overturned it after replays showed it hitting her torso.

The USA are now unbeaten in each of their last 20 friendly matches (W17 D3), keeping a clean sheet in 16 of those matches.

Emma Hayes also maintained her unbeaten start on her homecoming and was proud of how her team performed.

“When you have to play England, especially after the defeat to Germany, we knew there was going to be a reaction to that performance,” Hayes told ITV.

“I got the chance to see so many younger, less experienced players. It is so important because we are building towards something. I am proud of the way we imposed ourselves on the game. Generally, I am pleased with the performance.

“We had a goal disallowed, it was never a penalty, but you saw the entries into the final third it was us more than them. We are at a developmental stage, and I am proud of the way we played. In the Olympics, I saw some composure in our play. I am proud.

“You’ve got two top teams. Sarina’s an amazing coach. It was a good tactical match-up. I just enjoy coaching. I live in football matches, to be honest with you.”